Many
applications require customized solutions. Thus, FUTEK knows
that when we are approached by NASA, a standard off-the-shelf
product won't fully fit their bill of requirements. But being
that we are in the business of providing solutions, if there's
a will there's a way for FUTEK to design and develop the necessary
sensor needed for the job. And that's exactly what we did.

For the MSL Mars
Rover Curiosity mission, FUTEK was commission by NASA JPL to
develop a space/flight qualified cryogenic dual-bridge donut
load cell. This specific sensor sits within the drilling mechanism
on the rover. Responsible to measure the forces of the drill
bit, the inclusion of a dual-bridge was a necessity, allowing
the sensor to provide redundant measurements of low weight on
the drill bit, as the nominal weight is too low for the actuator
to detect.